The 100 Greatest movies of the 1970s. 52. Midnight Express (13 Viewers)

[HellToupee]

Perhaps a Marilyn Chambers film fest

You just took 70s PG rated movie nudity and kicked it up a notch

 

[timschochet]

100. The Omen (1976)

Directed by: Richard Donner
Starring: Gregory Peck, Lee Remick, David Warner

Synopsis: A prominent American couple has their baby replaced at birth with the Antichrist. Lots of horrific deaths occur around them.

Wrong? What could be wrong with our child, Robert? We’re beautiful people, aren’t we?
- Lee Remick as Kathy Thorn

Critics absolutely hated this horror film when it was released and it was panned for many years after. Michael Medved included it in his book The Fifty Worst Films of All Time and provides a hilarious write up showing how silly some the various deaths in this film are (particularly David Warner who ends up impaled by a large wooden cross.)
And yet it is really scary and creepy and that makes it fun to watch no matter how silly it gets. The little kid who plays Damien (Harvey Spencer Stephens) is especially creepy in that soft focus that was so popular in many of these 70s flicks. I think it’s one of the better horror films of the era (though the 70s were a masterful time for this genre as this list will demonstrate) and that’s why it’s included here.

 

[El Floppo]

My wife loves the Omen... Never did much for me.

That said, and I've mentioned it before, I got to design, or at least project manage, Donner and wife Lauren Schuler Donners vacation house (one of them anyways) in HI. Super duper nice people, so all his movies get a boost for me. Also got to go fishing on the Lethal Weapon boat (Danny Glovers, iirc) with him which was fun... Especially considering the ganja.

 

[zamboni]

100. The Omen (1976)

Directed by: Richard Donner
Starring: Gregory Peck, Lee Remick, David Warner

Synopsis: A prominent American couple has their baby replaced at birth with the Antichrist. Lots of horrific deaths occur around them.

Wrong? What could be wrong with our child, Robert? We’re beautiful people, aren’t we?
- Lee Remick as Kathy Thorn

Critics absolutely hated this horror film when it was released and it was panned for many years after. Michael Medved included it in his book The Fifty Worst Films of All Time and provides a hilarious write up showing how silly some the various deaths in this film are (particularly David Warner who ends up impaled by a large wooden cross.)
And yet it is really scary and creepy and that makes it fun to watch no matter how silly it gets. The little kid who plays Damien (Harvey Spencer Stephens) is especially creepy in that soft focus that was so popular in many of these 70s flicks. I think it’s one of the better horror films of the era (though the 70s were a masterful time for this genre as this list will demonstrate) and that’s why it’s included here.
of the better horror films of the era (though the 70s were a masterful time for this genre as this list will demonstrate) and that’s why it’s included here.

Pretty sure David Warner's death was being impaled by a plate of glass - equally silly, but I thought the death scenes were pretty cool in the film.

 

[Scoresman]

I can't imagine there are 99 movies from the 70s better than The Omen, Way too low but ok, at least it made the cut I guess.

I suppose this means Omen 2 did not make the cut since it is widely considered inferior to the original, but I like it just as much.

 

[timschochet]

I can't imagine there are 99 movies from the 70s better than The Omen, but ok, at least it made the cut I guess.

I suppose this means Omen 2 did not make the cut since it is widely considered inferior to the original, but I like it just as much.

I don’t think I ever saw Omen 2 but oddly enough I remember reading the novelization in middle school. I remember Damien learning that he’s got all sorts of special powers as the young antichrist, and I thought “gee that’s kind of cool!”

 

[HellToupee]

can't imagine there are 99 movies from the 70s better than The Omen

I can’t believe it’s in the top 100 . I guess that’s why lists are fun

 

[BobbyLayne]

I can't imagine there are 99 movies from the 70s better than The Omen, but ok, at least it made the cut I guess.

I suppose this means Omen 2 did not make the cut since it is widely considered inferior to the original, but I like it just as much.

You should stick to sandwiches

 

[Scoresman]

I can't imagine there are 99 movies from the 70s better than The Omen, but ok, at least it made the cut I guess.

I suppose this means Omen 2 did not make the cut since it is widely considered inferior to the original, but I like it just as much.

I don’t think I ever saw Omen 2 but oddly enough I remember reading the novelization in middle school. I remember Damien learning that he’s got all sorts of special powers as the young antichrist, and I thought “gee that’s kind of cool!”

That might be the best part of it, although one of the movie's faults is they don't really capitalize on that part of it enough.

But the sequel has the same over the top, amazing death scenes and is worth watching just for them alone.

 

[Scoresman]

I can't imagine there are 99 movies from the 70s better than The Omen, but ok, at least it made the cut I guess.

I suppose this means Omen 2 did not make the cut since it is widely considered inferior to the original, but I like it just as much.

You should stick to sandwiches

I just realized I wrote that completely wrong, implying The Omen is the #1 movie of the 70s which I do not believe. I do think it's way better than #100 though.

 

[timschochet]

99. Pink Flamingos (1972)
Directed by: John Waters
Starring: Divine, Mink Stole, Edith Massey
Synopsis: Trailer park competition to be the “filthiest person alive”

Filth is my politics! Filth is my life! - Divine as Babs Johnson

Not for the faint of heart. This movie is easily the most disgusting film of the 1970s and arguably of all time. The last scene alone, in which Divine consumes a very interesting meal was enough to make me physically ill when I watched it (in my early 20s at a midnight revival screening at an art theater.)|

What John Waters was doing was trolling American society and making an important statement about what makes us uncomfortable. Or, conversely, he was just looking to be gross and make a buck at the same time. Or maybe all three. In any event the film is certainly entertaining and I’ve never forgotten it.

 

[BobbyLayne]

99. Pink Flamingos (1972)
Directed by: John Waters
Starring: Divine, Mink Stole, Edith Massey
Synopsis: Trailer park competition to be the “filthiest person alive”

Filth is my politics! Filth is my life! - Divine as Babs Johnson

Not for the faint of heart. This movie is easily the most disgusting film of the 1970s and arguably of all time. The last scene alone, in which Divine consumes a very interesting meal was enough to make me physically ill when I watched it (in my early 20s at a midnight revival screening at an art theater.)|

What John Waters was doing was trolling American society and making an important statement about what makes us uncomfortable. Or, conversely, he was just looking to be gross and make a buck at the same time. Or maybe all three. In any event the film is certainly entertaining and I’ve never forgotten it.

$12K budget. Which in 1972 was like 4 average priced midsize sedans.

 

[John Maddens Lunchbox]

99. Pink Flamingos (1972)
Directed by: John Waters
Starring: Divine, Mink Stole, Edith Massey
Synopsis: Trailer park competition to be the “filthiest person alive”

Filth is my politics! Filth is my life! - Divine as Babs Johnson

Not for the faint of heart. This movie is easily the most disgusting film of the 1970s and arguably of all time. The last scene alone, in which Divine consumes a very interesting meal was enough to make me physically ill when I watched it (in my early 20s at a midnight revival screening at an art theater.)|

What John Waters was doing was trolling American society and making an important statement about what makes us uncomfortable. Or, conversely, he was just looking to be gross and make a buck at the same time. Or maybe all three. In any event the film is certainly entertaining and I’ve never forgotten it.

Took a date to see a rescreening of this in the 90s.
She thought the title would indicate something completely different. A romantic comedy or something
I knew better, but I hadnt actually seen it.
The shocked look on her face was priceless.
Never saw her again lol

Did the version you saw have the chicken ****ing and killing?
Mine was heavily edited

 

[timschochet]

99. Pink Flamingos (1972)
Directed by: John Waters
Starring: Divine, Mink Stole, Edith Massey
Synopsis: Trailer park competition to be the “filthiest person alive”

Filth is my politics! Filth is my life! - Divine as Babs Johnson

Not for the faint of heart. This movie is easily the most disgusting film of the 1970s and arguably of all time. The last scene alone, in which Divine consumes a very interesting meal was enough to make me physically ill when I watched it (in my early 20s at a midnight revival screening at an art theater.)|

What John Waters was doing was trolling American society and making an important statement about what makes us uncomfortable. Or, conversely, he was just looking to be gross and make a buck at the same time. Or maybe all three. In any event the film is certainly entertaining and I’ve never forgotten it.

Took a date to see a rescreening of this in the 90s.
She thought the title would indicate something completely different. A romantic comedy or something
I knew better, but I hadnt actually seen it.
The shocked look on her face was priceless.
Never saw her again lol

Did the version you saw have the chicken ****ing and killing?
Mine was heavily edited

Oh yeah.

 

[timschochet]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

 

[dutch]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

Dean Wormer was fabulous as the Big Bad, really hated that dude.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

I use the phrase "Endeavor to preserve" all the time.

• We thought about it for a long time, "Endeavor to persevere." And when we had thought about it long enough, we declared war on the Union.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

99. Pink Flamingos (1972)
Directed by: John Waters
Starring: Divine, Mink Stole, Edith Massey
Synopsis: Trailer park competition to be the “filthiest person alive”

Filth is my politics! Filth is my life! - Divine as Babs Johnson

Not for the faint of heart. This movie is easily the most disgusting film of the 1970s and arguably of all time. The last scene alone, in which Divine consumes a very interesting meal was enough to make me physically ill when I watched it (in my early 20s at a midnight revival screening at an art theater.)|

What John Waters was doing was trolling American society and making an important statement about what makes us uncomfortable. Or, conversely, he was just looking to be gross and make a buck at the same time. Or maybe all three. In any event the film is certainly entertaining and I’ve never forgotten it.

I remain baffled to this day that the person who made this went on to create Hairspray.

 

[tri-man 47]

99. Pink Flamingos (1972)
Directed by: John Waters
Starring: Divine, Mink Stole, Edith Massey
Synopsis: Trailer park competition to be the “filthiest person alive”

Filth is my politics! Filth is my life! - Divine as Babs Johnson

Not for the faint of heart. This movie is easily the most disgusting film of the 1970s and arguably of all time. The last scene alone, in which Divine consumes a very interesting meal was enough to make me physically ill when I watched it (in my early 20s at a midnight revival screening at an art theater.)|

What John Waters was doing was trolling American society and making an important statement about what makes us uncomfortable. Or, conversely, he was just looking to be gross and make a buck at the same time. Or maybe all three. In any event the film is certainly entertaining and I’ve never forgotten it.

I remember waiting in line to watch Pink Flamingos while I was in grad school at Michigan. They had two showings, and the looks on the faces of the crowd exiting the first screening were ..unusual. I was quite unsure about what we were heading into (other than knowing it was reputedly "the grossest film ever made").

 

[tri-man 47]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

And this is always a fun movie to watch (at 135 minutes in length). Classic Clint, lots of distinctive characters throughout the movie, and lots of quotable lines.

 

[BobbyLayne]

I use the phrase "Endeavor to preserve" all the time.

• We thought about it for a long time, "Endeavor to persevere." And when we had thought about it long enough, we declared war on the Union.

Not a hard man to track. Leaves dead men wherever he goes.

 

[timschochet]

97. The Heartbreak Kid (1972)

Directed by: Elaine May

Starring: Charles Grodin, Cybill Shepherd, Jeannie Berlin, Eddie Albert

Synopsis: Newlywed realizes on his honeymoon that he’s not in love with his wife; dumps her for a young hot blonde.

You don’t know what determination is. I eat determination for breakfast- Eddie Albert as Mr. Cocoron

Written by the great (and highly prolific for this era) Neil Simon, this very witty film may be a little dated. As any reader of Philip Roth knows, this is every Jewish boy’s dark fantasy- dodge the smart but whiny Jewish girl your parents expect you to marry and end up with the beautiful brainless blonde shiksa. Woody Allen also made a career out of this theme (as we shall see.)

Grodin is excellent in this role and might have had more of a starring career but never really achieved much after this and ended up as a supporting actor. Jeannie Berlin is very funny and then basically disappeared from acting for 40 years until she showed up on HBO’s excellent drama The Night Of. Cybill Shepherd, who is actually a very talented actress, doesn’t need to do much here other than look gorgeous, and she does. But perhaps the most memorable character on screen is Eddie Albert, playing Shephard’s father. Albert is most famous for his starring role on the show Green Acres, which really didn’t showcase his fine acting chops. But in both this small role and another one in a Burt Reynolds flick coming up later on this list, Albert steals every scene he’s in. He’s absolutely terrific.

 

[Ilov80s]

@KarmaPolice I guess we waited too long, he took our next thread

 

[Mr. Mojo]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

Chief Dan George had so many good lines in it.
I think that rating looks a little low, but time will tell.

 

[Don Quixote]

@KarmaPolice I guess we waited too long, he took our next thread

I’d be interested in seeing your lists too. E.g., Tim mentioned no foreign films, so I already know some great ones that belong will be left out.

 

[Ilov80s]

I’d be interested in seeing your lists too. E.g., Tim mentioned no foreign films, so I already know some great ones that belong will be left out.

I have two words: The Conformist. There’s several perfect movies from the 70s and The Conformist is one of them. I think Tim would like it if he hasn’t seen it.

 

[KarmaPolice]

@KarmaPolice I guess we waited too long, he took our next thread

I forgot to tag you, but I joked up thread that he stole our shtick. Probably not the worst thing as is saves me taking it on the chin for not having any of the overrated 70s "comedies" on my list.

 

[KarmaPolice]

I’d be interested in seeing your lists too. E.g., Tim mentioned no foreign films, so I already know some great ones that belong will be left out.

I have two words: The Conformist. There’s several perfect movies from the 70s and The Conformist is one of them. I think Tim would like it if he hasn’t seen it.

Two more words from me: Ingmar Bergman.

 

[KarmaPolice]

A couple Tarkovsky movies would probably be on my list, but those and others were ones I wanted to revisit. I was also going to use the exercise as an excuse to watch a couple Giallo movies, since I can't think of more than maybe 1 that I have seen.

 

[timschochet]

96. The Out-of-Towners (1970)

Directed by: Arthur Hiller

Starring: Jack Lemmon, Sandy Dennis

Synopsis: A couple from out of state comes to Manhattan for a new job and run into one calamity after another.

Oh….my…..Gawd!!!! - Sandy Dennis as Gwen Kellerman

Another gem by Neil Simon, if you ask anyone over a certain age they will consistently tell you this was one of the funniest movies of the decade. Similar in style to Its A Mad Mad Mad Mad World though it doesn’t have an ensemble cast and everything happens to one couple. Both Lemmon and Dennis are at the top of their form here. Very entertaining.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

Tim, I was just thinking: there are some minefield films from the decade that I'm sure you'll choose. By "minefield", I mean "minefield for Tim". We've seen it happen with you before, where you disappear from a countdown or draft. Be careful, amigo

 

[timschochet]

95. Nicholas and Alexandra (1971)

Directed by: Franklin J. Shaffner

Starring: Michael Jayston, Janet Suzman, Tom Baker, Lawrence Olivier

Synopsis: The last Czar of the Russias and his family fall victim to bloody revolution.

I am the voice of God. It is His will. I have been sent to do great things. - Tom Baker as Rasputin

Based on the outstanding book by Robert Massie, Nicholas and Alexandra is a long epic of a film in the mode of Dr. Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Last Emperor, complete with intermission. It’s not as good as any of those films; for all its wide scope of history and retelling of dramatic events there is something missing with the characters; the movie seems flat at times. It’s hard to find flaws in the acting, which is outstanding, particularly Jayston in the lead role and Baker as the reckless monk Rasputin, both like Olivier (who plays Foreign Minister Witte) are veterans of the Shakespeare stage.
Despite its flaws this flick keeps your interest all throughout the movie which is long. It’s good enough to make this list but it could have been better. This story would be an excellent candidate for a TV miniseries.

 

[Brunell4MVP]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

And this is always a fun movie to watch (at 135 minutes in length). Classic Clint, lots of distinctive characters throughout the movie, and lots of quotable lines.

"Dyin' ain't much of a living, boy"

 

[Manster]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

I'd have this much higher

 

[Mrs. Rannous]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

I'd have this much higher

Weird. We find it unwatchable.

 

[Mr. Mojo]

95. Nicholas and Alexandra (1971)

Directed by: Franklin J. Shaffner

Starring: Michael Jayston, Janet Suzman, Tom Baker, Lawrence Olivier

Synopsis: The last Czar of the Russias and his family fall victim to bloody revolution.

I am the voice of God. It is His will. I have been sent to do great things. - Tom Baker as Rasputin

Based on the outstanding book by Robert Massie, Nicholas and Alexandra is a long epic of a film in the mode of Dr. Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Last Emperor, complete with intermission. It’s not as good as any of those films; for all its wide scope of history and retelling of dramatic events there is something missing with the characters; the movie seems flat at times. It’s hard to find flaws in the acting, which is outstanding, particularly Jayston in the lead role and Baker as the reckless monk Rasputin, both like Olivier (who plays Foreign Minister Witte) are veterans of the Shakespeare stage.
Despite its flaws this flick keeps your interest all throughout the movie which is long. It’s good enough to make this list but it could have been better. This story would be an excellent candidate for a TV miniseries.

I haven't seen it but since the Director's other 2 films are 2 of my favorites (Patton and Papillion) I should probably give it a try.

 

[Manster]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

I'd have this much higher

Weird. We find it unwatchable.

Not a fan of Eastwood? Westerns?

 

[Manster]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

And this is always a fun movie to watch (at 135 minutes in length). Classic Clint, lots of distinctive characters throughout the movie, and lots of quotable lines.

Back in college we used to play a drinking game. Every time Josey spits, or says "I reckon" you drink.......very sophisticated

 

[timschochet]

95. Nicholas and Alexandra (1971)

Directed by: Franklin J. Shaffner

Starring: Michael Jayston, Janet Suzman, Tom Baker, Lawrence Olivier

Synopsis: The last Czar of the Russias and his family fall victim to bloody revolution.

I am the voice of God. It is His will. I have been sent to do great things. - Tom Baker as Rasputin

Based on the outstanding book by Robert Massie, Nicholas and Alexandra is a long epic of a film in the mode of Dr. Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Last Emperor, complete with intermission. It’s not as good as any of those films; for all its wide scope of history and retelling of dramatic events there is something missing with the characters; the movie seems flat at times. It’s hard to find flaws in the acting, which is outstanding, particularly Jayston in the lead role and Baker as the reckless monk Rasputin, both like Olivier (who plays Foreign Minister Witte) are veterans of the Shakespeare stage.
Despite its flaws this flick keeps your interest all throughout the movie which is long. It’s good enough to make this list but it could have been better. This story would be an excellent candidate for a TV miniseries.

I haven't seen it but since the Director's other 2 films are 2 of my favorites (Patton and Papillion) I should probably give it a try.

I think he directed Planet of the Apes too

 

[Mrs. Rannous]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

I'd have this much higher

Weird. We find it unwatchable.

Not a fan of Eastwood? Westerns?

Yes. Loved Pale Rider and the Dollars trilogy. Two Mules For SIster Sara is one of my all-time favorite movies (also one of my favorite soundtracks). Just didn't like Josey Wales at all.

 

[Mr. Mojo]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

I'd have this much higher

Weird. We find it unwatchable.

Not a fan of Eastwood? Westerns?

Yes. Loved Pale Rider and the Dollars trilogy. Two Mules For SIster Sara is one of my all-time favorite movies (also one of my favorite soundtracks). Just didn't like Josey Wales at all.

I am the exact opposite. I love Josey Wales and think that Pale Rider is a really weak remake of High Plains Drifter.

 

[Manster]

98. The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)

Directed by: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Clint Eastwood, Chief Dan George, Sandra Locke, Bill McKinney, John Vernon

Synopsis: Missouri farmer loses his wife and daughter to Yankee raiders. He joins the Confederacy but even after the war is over his thirst for vengeance continues unabated.

Are you gonna pull those pistols or whistle Dixie? - Clint Eastwood as Josey Wales

It’s a Clint Eastwood western and that alone makes it enjoyable. The plot is derivative of course but who needs a plot? Clint is pissed off, he’s taking things personal, there’s a bunch of bad guys out there, really all we need for an entertaining 90 minutes. Chief Dan George is a good sidekick. Sandra Locke, who was married to Clint during the 70s and 80s, was his love interest in several films of this era.

I'd have this much higher

Weird. We find it unwatchable.

Not a fan of Eastwood? Westerns?

Yes. Loved Pale Rider and the Dollars trilogy. Two Mules For SIster Sara is one of my all-time favorite movies (also one of my favorite soundtracks). Just didn't like Josey Wales at all.

Eastwood is the quentisential Western hero. I enjoy all of his films, really. The spaghetti Westerns are great, specifically Good/Bad/Ugly.....Wallach, and Van Cleef are awesome. The cemetery scene is in my top ten movie scenes of all time.

The cool thing is he did great westerns in the 60's, 70's, 80's, and 90's! And then he makes something like Gran Torino in 2008! Eastwood is a legend.

 

[timschochet]

94. Sleeper (1973)

Directed by: Woody Allen

Starring: Woody Allen, Diane Keaton

Synopsis: Jazz musician has faulty surgery and wakes up 200 years later to a dystopian society.

I haven’t seen my analyst in over 200 years. He’s a strict Freudian. If I had seen him all that time I’d probably be almost cured by now. - Woody Allen as Miles Morales

OK let’s get this out of the way first: Woody Allen, IMO is a scumbag pedophile. The evidence that he did what Mia Farrow and others have accused him of is overwhelming and like another director we will get to later, he is a really bad guy and deserves to rot in hell. He is also one of the greatest directors of the era, and of all time, and also one of the titans of comedy. I grew up loving his movies; now I can’t bring myself to watch them because I remember who he is and I feel disgusted. But- for the purposes of this list I will discuss these movies in the way I remembered them and previously regarded them, without consideration of the man who made them. End of sermon.

Sleeper is a hilarious mostly slapstick comedy which plays tribute at times to the great silent comedy film stars Chaplin, Lloyd and Keaton. It also has plenty of typical early Allen humor like the quote above, distinctive to him. It’s also a satire and sly commentary on several aspects of American society. Allen is extremely funny; Diane Keaton is great as always as his sidekick.

 

[El Floppo]

Be they black, be they white, be they whatever.

Super soft spot for Sleeper.

Lots of things I find myself referencing from it...but there's a scene where they're ridiculing his former "healthy" vegetarian diet vs what they know to be true now (deep fried fats are good, etc)... Every diet and workout craze makes me think of that scene.

 

[timschochet]

93. The Jerk (1979)

Director: Carl Reiner

Starring: Steve Martin, Bernadette Peters, M. Emmitt Walsh, Jackie Mason

Synopsis: Navin Johnson, a homeless person, relates his life story.

The new phone book’s here! …I’m somebody now! Millions of people look at this book every day! - Steve Martin as Navin Johnson

Navin R- Sounds like a typical *******! - M. Emmit Walsh as the madman sniper

This was Steve Martin’s first starring role in a film. Previously he was known for his appearances on Saturday Night Live, his comedy record A Wild And Crazy Guy, and the novelty songs “King Tut” and his version of “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer.” The movie is basically an extension of Martin’s silly style of humor and if you like this sort of thing (I often do) it’s very funny. I haven’t seen this in a long while so it might seem kind of dated now but I have fond memories.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

You mean I'm gonna STAY this color!?

 

[Hastur]

93. The Jerk (1979)

Director: Carl Reiner

Starring: Steve Martin, Bernadette Peters, M. Emmitt Walsh, Jackie Mason

Synopsis: Navin Johnson, a homeless person, relates his life story.

The new phone book’s here! …I’m somebody now! Millions of people look at this book every day! - Steve Martin as Navin Johnson

Navin R- Sounds like a typical *******! - M. Emmit Walsh as the madman sniper

This was Steve Martin’s first starring role in a film. Previously he was known for his appearances on Saturday Night Live, his comedy record A Wild And Crazy Guy, and the novelty songs “King Tut” and his version of “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer.” The movie is basically an extension of Martin’s silly style of humor and if you like this sort of thing (I often do) it’s very funny. I haven’t seen this in a long while so it might seem kind of dated now but I have fond memories.

Brilliant comedy! Way too low at #93. Can't wait to see what comedies you rank above this classic.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Navin R. Johnson: First I get my name in the phone book and now it's on your ***. You know, I'll bet more people see that than the phone book.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

93. The Jerk (1979)

Director: Carl Reiner

Starring: Steve Martin, Bernadette Peters, M. Emmitt Walsh, Jackie Mason

Synopsis: Navin Johnson, a homeless person, relates his life story.

The new phone book’s here! …I’m somebody now! Millions of people look at this book every day! - Steve Martin as Navin Johnson

Navin R- Sounds like a typical *******! - M. Emmit Walsh as the madman sniper

This was Steve Martin’s first starring role in a film. Previously he was known for his appearances on Saturday Night Live, his comedy record A Wild And Crazy Guy, and the novelty songs “King Tut” and his version of “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer.” The movie is basically an extension of Martin’s silly style of humor and if you like this sort of thing (I often do) it’s very funny. I haven’t seen this in a long while so it might seem kind of dated now but I have fond memories.

One dollar and NINE CENTS!!!!!

 

[BobbyLayne]

93. The Jerk (1979)

Director: Carl Reiner

Starring: Steve Martin, Bernadette Peters, M. Emmitt Walsh, Jackie Mason

Synopsis: Navin Johnson, a homeless person, relates his life story.

The new phone book’s here! …I’m somebody now! Millions of people look at this book every day! - Steve Martin as Navin Johnson

Navin R- Sounds like a typical *******! - M. Emmit Walsh as the madman sniper

This was Steve Martin’s first starring role in a film. Previously he was known for his appearances on Saturday Night Live, his comedy record A Wild And Crazy Guy, and the novelty songs “King Tut” and his version of “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer.” The movie is basically an extension of Martin’s silly style of humor and if you like this sort of thing (I often do) it’s very funny. I haven’t seen this in a long while so it might seem kind of dated now but I have fond memories.

One dollar and NINE CENTS!!!!!

He hates these cans! Stay away from the cans!